Reflective Essay Assignment Instructions
Overview
The ability to discern what the biblical text meant to its original audience and accurately communicate what the original message means for people today is a major goal of biblical studies. God has worked in the specifics of time, place, and choice of individuals to advance his redemptive mission. With this reflective essay the student will write their thoughtful reflections on the significance of time, place, and choice as related to the circumstances in the life of an Old Testament character and how God advanced his redemptive mission through the person’s life. The student will conclude the essay by relating the significance of time, place, and choice as related to God advancing his redemptive mission in and through their life today.
Instructions
After reading the book of Esther and the corresponding textbook materials, review the conversation between Esther and Mordecai in Esther 4:1-17. In 4:14, Mordecai replied to Esther, “And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Develop your reflective essay by responding to the following two questions: 1) As related to Esther and God’s redemptive mission, what is the significance of timing, the place, and the choice to be made by her? 2) As related to you and God’s redemptive mission, what is the significance of time, place, and choice as related to God advancing his redemptive mission in and through your life today?
- Length of assignment: Not to exceed 500 words, double-spaced, excluding title page and bibliography.
- Format of assignment: Current Turabian format. The student must document Scripture passages with parenthetical citations within body of paper, but all other sources used must be documented with properly formatted footnotes in current Turabian format.
- Number of citations: There is no minimum number of citations required, but you are required to demonstrate engagement with the biblical text and textbook with appropriate source citations.
- Acceptable sources: The Bible (excluding study notes), textbook, and recent academic sources, especially biblical commentaries on Esther, must be used if secondary sources are consulted. Internet sources require the instructor’s prior approval.
Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turn it in plagiarism tool.
